24 Years in Prison for Wildlife Trafficking
On December 5, 2024, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Court sentenced Le Phung Bien, Director of Vietseatrust Food Import Trading Co., Ltd., to 24 years in prison for the crimes of “Smuggling,” “Violating regulations on wildlife protection,” and “Violating regulations on the protection of endangered, precious, and rare animals.” This is one of the harshest sentences ever issued in Vietnam for wildlife trafficking offenses.
The defendant, Le Phung Bien, at the trial. (Source: ENV)
One of the confiscated items at the scene. (Source: Ho Chi Minh City Customs Department)
Ms. Bui Thi Ha, Deputy Director of the Education for Nature Vietnam (ENV), remarked, “The total sentence of 24 years is a very heavy price to pay. This is a significant wake-up call for Mr. Bien and anyone who has engaged or is considering engaging in wildlife trafficking. The law will not tolerate any criminal acts.”
This decision highlights the strict stance of Vietnamese law on addressing illegal wildlife trade. It is not only a costly lesson for Mr. Bien but also a warning to those contemplating similar illegal activities.
Due to its strategic geographical location and major seaport system, Vietnam has become a crucial transit hub in the global wildlife trafficking network. According to ENV data, since 2015, authorities have uncovered at least 34 cases of illegal wildlife trade at ports, seizing around 80 tons of ivory, rhino horns, pangolin scales, and other contraband. In 2023 alone, confiscated items at ports totaled 8 tons, underscoring the alarming scale of this issue.
Ms. Ha stated that the enormous profits from wildlife trafficking are the primary reason why many individuals are willing to risk legal consequences. A notable example occurred in July 2024, when the Hai Phong City People’s Court sentenced the director of a company to 10 years in prison for smuggling 615 kg of ivory through Lach Huyen Port.
To combat and minimize wildlife trafficking, it is essential to involve all stakeholders, including governments, businesses, communities, and individuals. Let’s work together to raise awareness and refuse to condone any violations of the law. Together, we can create a future free from the shadows of wildlife traffickers.
Source: VTV
